Free red ribbons are available in Grandview Heights ahead of National Red Ribbon Week, which runs Friday, Oct. 23, through Saturday, Oct. 31.
Start Talking Grandview, a local group focused on substance-misuse prevention, is distributing the ribbons and encouraging neighbors to tie them around trees or posts in their yards. The effort is part of the nation's longest-running drug awareness campaign, according to a Grandview Heights City Schools announcement.
Residents can sign up for home delivery through a Google form linked on the group's Instagram page or pick up a ribbon at the Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., or at the Grandview Heights Farmers Market.
The Farmers Market moves indoors for its winter season starting Sunday, Oct. 25, at Larson Middle School, 1600 W. First Ave., according to the market's website. Winter markets run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on selected Sundays.
One note from organizers: ribbons should go on private property only. Yards and porches work. City signposts and tree-lawn trees do not.
Red Ribbon Week dates to 1985, when communities began wearing red ribbons after the murder of Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena in Mexico. The National Family Partnership, which sponsors the campaign, says it has reached millions of families since the first national celebration in 1988. This year's theme is "Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free."
Upper Arlington is also marking the week. The city hosts a drug take-back event Saturday, Oct. 24, as we reported Oct. 16.
Upcoming
- Friday, Oct. 23 – Saturday, Oct. 31: National Red Ribbon Week. Free ribbons available through Start Talking Grandview.
- Saturday, Oct. 24: Upper Arlington drug take-back event.
- Sunday, Oct. 25: Grandview Heights Farmers Market winter season opens at Larson Middle School, 1600 W. First Ave., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
